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ODYSSEY TREKS

Tempting Thailand- Temples, Jungles,

Northern Mountains and Beautiful Beaches

13 Day Adventure

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Phone: 1-855-888-8735


WHY TRAVEL WITH US

Adventure travel trips specifically geared for working professionals from the same city. Odyssey Treks provides

authentic cultural trips involving travel to remote, exotic areas with elements of physical participation and exploration

of a new experience with optional volunteering opportunities. The great thing is everyone on the trip will be from the

same city where you can share, relive, and get together back home after the trip.

What we want to create with this company is a community for you in your city where you can meet new friends, create meaningful relationships and have life time memories of unforgettable trips and journeys. We’ve met some truly remarkable people, shared some amazing experiences and have had some fantastic relationships through all our years of travel. The problem is all those people are scattered throughout the world. There’s amazing people, incredible friendships and wonderful relationships ready to be made right in your own city. Why not connect with them through travel and develop something meaningful and lasting.

All of our tours will incorporate our trip essence. This trip essence includes adventure, culture and volunteering opportunities. As well we promise to follow our guiding principles and core values on all of our trips.

GUIDING PRINCIPLES

QUALITY Our accommodations, local guides, pre-departure service and suppliers are constantly monitored and consistently evaluated to ensure we uphold the standard of excellence. We will always ask for traveler suggestions, requirements and any safety concerns you may have for all our trips to make this the most memorable experience possible. FLEXIBILITY All of our tours offer optional activities throughout with plenty of free time to do your own thing. Of course we want you to do as many activities as possible with the group but we also understand that having time on your own is important as well. Our small groups can venture beyond the well-worn tourist paths and experience a destination’s less publicized but equally rewarding attractions. Our itineraries are creative and responsive and make the perfect one or two week vacation so you can take full of advantage. SMALL GROUPS Limiting our groups to no more than 16 participants plus one Odyssey Treks Tour Leader means we can maximize cultural immersion while minimizing environmental disruption. As food always plays an important role in the local cultural experience, we make a point of avoiding large hotel buffets in favour of smaller, local restaurants. VALUE



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Since we design, develop and work with local partners in each country no one is more familiar with the intricacies of our product than ourselves. When you book with us, you take advantage of this first-hand knowledge and an extensive network of worldwide contacts; you’ll be in good hands with Odyssey Treks.

What Odyssey Treks does is make everything easy for you from the moment you land in the country to the time you get back on that plane to go home. There’s no need to do hours and hours of planning. Let us take out all the stresses of traveling so you can enjoy your time away. Remember it’s a vacation for you. We’re going to make sure you have a fantastic time! If something were to go wrong going we will be there to help you, support you and make sure whatever challenges there are you won’t be alone. We’ve found our travel experiences sometimes things can go wrong unfortunately- that’s the nature of traveling in foreign countries.

Our CORE VALUES

Develop Friendships and Community

Create Happiness

Responsibility

Provide Opportunities

Explore and Challenge

We hope you choose to travel with a purpose and to travel with us!

Here’s a quote from the Dalai Lama- his words I truly believe in. “We’ve lost something along the way. Our society focuses on material things and for some reason people measure others by what they have instead who they are. I wish everyone happiness and finding it can be difficult. The happiest people I’ve met are those in villages that have nothing. It’s remarkable seeing these happy kids. For them they have family, friends and an imagination.”

Ryan- Owner Odyssey Treks



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TOUR ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrive Bangkok In Bangkok, after clearing immigration and customs, you will be welcomed by our guide and transfered to your hotel. Thailand’s capital city, known to Thais as “Krung Thep” (the City of Angels) is one of the world’s most exciting cities. It holds the essence of the Thai spirit, and is very much the heart of the country. Without doubt, this fast-growing metropolis of roughly 10 million people has something to offer everyone. Its lively collection of nightlife venues, markets, shops, restaurants, magnificent “wats” (temples), museums, palaces and parks will assure that you never get bored. Settle in and enjoy the afternoon and evening at your leisure. Overnight at Villa Cha Cha (Junior Room) – Bangkok http://www.villachacha.com/

Day 2: Bangkok Meals Provided: B Explore the klongs (canals) of Bangkok’s Thonburi side on a private chartered river taxi boat with comfortable seats. Cruise up the Chao Phraya River and through a network of canals which lace the city. These often bustling "city streets," lined with homes and small businesses, are where much of "real life" in Bangkok is found. The 3-hour cruise takes you along lesser traveled canals and includes visits to the Royal Barge Museum and Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn, one of the most attractive temples in Thailand). Next continue to visit Wat


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Po that features the largest reclining Buddha in Thailand, and the Chedi of the kings, is Bangkok's oldest and largest temple. This afternoon visit the Grand Palace. The Grand Palace is one of the most beautiful samples of an ancient Siamese court. It used to be the residence of the Kings of Bangkok. Here you will see palaces which were used for different occasions: the Funeral Palace, the Reception Palace, the Throne Hall, the Coronation Hall, the Royal Guest House, and Wat Phra Keo, the beautiful Emerald Buddha Temple. Also visit Wat Traimit houses a striking 3-meter tall Golden Buddha image - a gleaming, 5-ton figure of solid gold. Overnight at Villa Cha Cha (Junior Room) – Bangkok

Day 3: Ayutthaya to Bang Pa In by bicycle join-in/ Overnight train to Chiang Mai Meals Provided: B Towering chedis amidst crumbling ruins create the ancient city of Ayutthaya. Situated just north of Bangkok, Ayutthaya once claimed Thailand's capital, but that governance ended abruptly in 1767 when the city was sacked by Burmese invaders. Despite destruction, the ruins emanate the city's prior dominance, beauty, and rich history. An easy day ride, this tour reveals the historic treasures of Thailand. From the impressive ruins of Ayutthaya to the grandiose summer palace of the kings, this bike trip takes you off the beaten path and onto



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the local trails through authentic Thailand. After a short transfer from your Bangkok hotel, take to bikes to explore the ruins of the impressive Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1991. Its distinct reputation is well earned - weathered layers of burnt bricks compose the stately stupas and chedis that guard these grounds. First, see Wat Yai Chaimongkol and its towering chedi, one so large that it presently is sinking. Then, biking through the ancient city's walls, visit Wat Phra Mahatat, the symbolic heart of the old city now famed for the picturesque tree roots that ensnarl its imbedded Buddha relic. Fruitful jujube trees still surround the Old Royal Palace. From there you have time to continue exploring these precarious, precious structures, including the prominent Wat Chaiwattanaram. The ride to the summer palace at Bang Pa-In is a real pleasure, escaping into the Thai countryside, riding on quiet roads passing by the local communities that line this part of the Chao Phraya River. TRIP PROFILE This is a gentle 25 kilometre ride along country back roads and is suitable for anyone that can ride a bike. The roads are flat, quiet countryside trails pass by many local communities. You ride in a group, with an experienced Spice Roads cycle guide setting a gentle pace. Stopping often to visit points of interest, there is opportunity to sample some of the local food. A support vehicle follows close behind with plenty provisions. Guides are knowledgeable on the local area and customs and explain the history, culture and local way-of-life at each stop. Water, soft drinks and snacks are all included as well as lunch and a quality mountain bike and helmet. This trip is suitable for everyone. Return back to Bangkok where you’ll have some free time until we transfer to Bangkok Railway Station and board the night train to Chiang Mai. Depart by second-class air-conditioned train with sleeping bed. Overnight ON THE TRAIN. Day 4: Chiang Mai Meals Provided: B Early this morning we arrive at Chiang Mai Rail Way Station. Pick up by our guide and transfered to your hotel for breakfast and morning free at leisure. Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai show off a mixture of architectural styles that reflect the varied heritage of Northern Thailand. Elements from Lanna Thai, Burmese, Sri Lankan and Mon temples have all been used in one from or another. Intricate woodcarvings and protective Naga serpent staircases add a flamboyance that reflects an awesome reverence for the Buddhist religion. Gilded umbrellas, guardian figures from the tales of the Ramayana and stupas trimmed with god filigree combine to heighten the overall effect. To date, there have been some 300 temples constructed in Chiang Mai and its outskirts. Settle in and enjoy the remainder of day free at your leisure or volunteer for 1day. Overnight at Ramping Lodge (Superior Room) – Chiang Mai http://www.raminglodge.com/raminglodge/index.php Day 5: Chiang Mai (Trying to arrange some volunteer work this day) Meals Provided: B/D After breakfast, you will visit Chiang Mai’s temples: Wat Phra Singh: The large chedi was built in 1345 by King Pha Yu to house the remains of his father King Kam Fu. A typical scripture repository is located at this temple as well. These repositories were designed to keep and protect the delicate sa or mullberry paper sheets used by monks to keep records and write down folklore. The high stucco-covered stone base of the repository


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protected the delicate scriptures from the rain, floods and pests. Wat Chedi Luang: The temple was originally constructed in 1401 by the orders of King Saeng Muang Ma. In 1454, reigning King Tilo-Garaj enlarged the chedi to a height of 86 meters. After an earthquake in 1545, the chedi lay in ruins until 1991, when it was reconstructed at a cost of several million Baht. Then head out into the countryside to enjoy visit to Wat Doi Suthep, tucked away in the mountains at 3,280 feet. The temple is reached by a staircase with 290 steps, flanked by a naga balustrade on either side. The monastery was built by King Gue-Na in 1383. The center is a big Chedi (spiral pagoda), which contains partial relics of Lord Buddha.

This afternoon enjoy The Chiang Mai Thai cookery school offering a choice of 5 different one-day courses, which run in circle day in any day out (7 days a week). The courses are completely hands on which means that you will prepare and cook all the dishes by yourself. Teachers have an extensive knowledge of Thai ingredients and cooking methods which they take pleasure in sharing with their students every day. They all speak excellent English. The main emphasis of the courses is on quality. A recipe book in full color contains all the recipes from the 5 courses along with a photograph of each dish (each participant receives a free copy of the cook book). Afterward you get to enjoy what you’ve cooked for dinner. Overnight at Ramping Lodge (Superior Room) – Chiang Mai Day 6: Chiang Mai / Hmong Hilltribe Lodge Meals Provided: B/L/D After breakfast. Depart Chiang Mai to visit the hill-tribe museum at Mae Rim and a local market at Mae Malai. Then continue to Ban Mae Taman of Mae Tang. Take a one-hour elephant ride through the rainforest, which for most people is an exciting and unforgettable experience and ride on a typical northern ox-cart through rural landscape. After a picnic lunch, embark on inflatable rafts for an adventurous journey down the rapids in



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the white-water and scenic Mae Tang River for about an hour (if the water levels are too low the river-journey will be replaced by floating down the river on bamboo rafts).

Continue by 4-wheel drive to Baan Pang Hai, a simple village situated 850 metres above sea level. Check-in at the HMONG HILLTRIBE LODGE, B.B.Q. dinner at the lodge, followed by a presentation of the Hmong dances and songs and overnight. Overnight at Hmong Hilltribe Lodge (Standard Room) – Chiang Mai http://www.hilltribelodge.com/ Day 7: Hmong Hilltribe Lodge Meals Provided: B/L/D After breakfast, drive to a small village of Baan Teen Doi where you take a short stroll to Baan Mae Pa. Get into action by mountain biking to Baan Palan. Visit a small village reservoir and continue biking to Baan Pong Kwaw, where there is an old temple with beautiful wall paintings. Picnic lunch. Drive by 4WD on mountain roads through Baan Pok, Baan Pang Kwai and Baan Nong Hoi Mai. Then get into action again by trekking or mountain biking from Nong Hoi Mai to Mae Khi village, where you can have coffee or tea in the Hmong's kitchen. Return to HMONG HILLTRIBE LODGE for dinner and overnight.


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Day 8: Hmong Lodge / Pai Meals Provided: B/L/D After breakfast, depart on a full day excursion to Pai via Ban Wat Chan. The journey takes you through countless steep hills, forests and hilltribe villages. Short stop at Luang Mae Saab Cave. Lunch in a local restaurant at Wat Chan. Continue by car over rolling terrain to Pai and check in at Pai Hotspring Spa Resort. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure to explore the town until dinner or after dinner. Time permitting; if you wish to see more temples, there are two temples worth visiting. Dinner and overnight at Pai Hotspring Spa Resort. http://www.paihotspringssparesort.com/

Day 9: Pai - Mae Hong Son / Chiang Mai Meals Provided: B/L After breakfast, early this morning depart from Pai to Mae Hong Son. On the way, visit Lod Cave where a river runs through the cave to the other side of the mountain. Another stop is made at Phu Klon Country Club, famous for therapeutic mud treatments. Lunch at Golden Pai Resort. Continue to Ban Nai Soi to visit the Khaya, known as long-necked Padong Tribe. Afterwards, drive to Mae Hong Son city to visit Wat Phra Thart Doi Kong Moo for a panoramic view of the valleys, Wat Jong Kham and Wat Jong Klang, Burmese-style ancient temples. Transfer to Mae Hong Son airport for a return flight to Chiang Mai. Upon arrival you will be picked up by our guide and transfered to your hotel.


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Settle in and enjoy the evening at your leisure. Overnight at Ramping Lodge (Superior Room) – Chiang Mai http://www.raminglodge.com/raminglodge/index.php Day 10: Chiang Mai / Krabi Meals Provided: B After a leisurely morning, you'll be met and transferred to the airport for your flight to Krabi. Upon arrival at Krabi Airport, you will be welcomed by our guide and transfered to your beachside accommodations and enjoy the remainder of the day and evening at leisure. Overnight at Best Western Ao Nang Bay Resort (Standard Room) – Krabi http://book.bestwestern.com/bestwestern/TH/Krabi-hotels/BEST-WESTERN-Ao-Nang-Bay-Resort---Spa/Hotel-Overview.do?propertyCode=99314 Day 11: Phi Phi Island by Speed Boat (join-in speedboat) Meals Provided: B/L After breakfast, transfer to boat pier. A 45-minutes trip by speedboat whisks you to the clear, turquoise waters of Phi Phi Islands where you can enjoy several stops for swimming, snorkeling & sightseeing. The trip includes a stop at Maya Bay, where Leonardo Di Caprio famously enjoyed a dip, the stunning Bamboo Island and it’s spectacular snorkeling reef, and lunch served at a restaurant on the islands northern beaches. You will have time for swimming and snorkeling amongst the colorful fish and coral Phi Phi is so famous for or just taking a relaxing stroll.


http://www.raminglodge.com/raminglodge/index.php

http://book.bestwestern.com/bestwestern/TH/Krabi-hotels/BEST-WESTERN-Ao-Nang-Bay-Resort---Spa/Hotel-Overview.do?propertyCode=99314

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Overnight at Best Western Ao Nang Bay Resort (Standard Room) – Krabi Day 12: Crystal Pool Jungle & Elephant Safari Meals Provided: B/L After breakfast, depart to Huay Tho Elephant camp, a 45-minute drive from Ao Nang. Embark on a 1-hour trek through the jungle on elephant back (2 persons per elephant). Next, drive to Wat Tham Sua ("Tiger Cave Temple"), one of the most famous monasteries of Southern Thailand. You can meet the monks and see how they live in the beautiful surroundings and natural serenity of the caves. If you're feeling up to the task you are welcome to try out the 1237 (steep!) steps to the top of this temple mountain and experience one of the most breathtaking views in Thailand if not the world – looking in all directions over lush forest, limestone karsts, and magnificent ocean. After a delicious Thai lunch at the "Gula Kasai" restaurant, continue to the tropical lowland rainforest of Kao Prak Bang National Park. Here you can stroll through the lush and fragrant jungle to an "Emerald Pool" where you can swim in crystal clear mineral enriched waters. Take a dip in the thermal Hot Springs, a naturally occurring volcanic spring, visited by many Thais who come to soak in the perfect bath temperature water which is believed to be beneficial for health, particularly the skin. Overnight at Best Western Ao Nang Bay Resort (Standard Room) – Krabi Day 13: Depart Krabi Meals Provided: B Transfer to the Krabi Airport in time for your flight to Bangkok. We wish you a safe and pleasant journey.

TRIP/ROUTE MAP



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PRICING $2899USD WITH MY OWN ROOM ADD $499USD

2014 DEPARTURE CITIES AND DATES Please check our website for the latest dates and departure cities.

PHYSICAL CONDITIONING RATING: 3 out of 5

THIS TOUR IS FOR EVERYONE

Cultural Rating: 3 out of 5

Accommodations

3 star boutique comfort hotels, guesthouses, bungalows

Meals Included

All daily buffet breakfasts at hotels are included.

All meals included as indicated as in program: B: breakfast, L: lunch & D: dinner

Meal Budget: Allow USD15-50 for meals and drinks (including bottled water) not included.

What’s Included Hotel accommodation base in double/twin rooms (best 3 stars nice boutique hotels). Daily buffet breakfast at hotel and all hotels taxes and service charges. Pick-ups and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle as specified in the itinerary above. Travel by private, air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced, safe driver. Private sightseeing with local, English-speaking guides as indicated in the itinerary. Meals included as indicated as in program: B: breakfast, L: lunch & D: dinner. Domestic flight tickets: Mae Hong Son – Chiang Mai on Economy Class. Domestic flight tickets: Chiang Mai – Krabi on Economy Class. Domestic flight tickets: Krabi – Bangkok on Economy Class. Entry fees for all visits as mentioned in the programmed. Boat cruise as specified in the programmed. VAT and all taxes and service charge. Cool drinking water on board.



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What’s Not Included

International flights, airport/departure taxes, visas, pre or post tour accommodation, optional tours

sightseeing or activities during free time, transfers outside of the tour program, tips and items of a personal

nature, laundry and any alcohol purchased or consumed.

Some places that we visit charge additional fees if you are entering with a camera or camcorder - your city

guide will advise on these and they can be paid for locally.

Any travel vaccinations that are required.

Travel Medical Insurance (this is mandatory and must be shown to our tour leader before trip begins) If you

need travel insurance please go to our website and get a free quote


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